"Pardon me, bhai {brother}," Desmond heard him say, "that is hardly the way to deal with a boy of my nation. If you will deign to leave him to me, I think that in a little I shall find means to overcome his hesitation."
"But even then, how can I trust the boy? He may give his word to escape me; then betray me to his countrymen. I have no faith in the Firangi."
"Believe me, if he gives his word he will keep it. That is the way with us."
"It is not your way."
"I am no longer of them," said Diggle with consummate aplomb. "Dismiss him now; I shall do my best with him."
"Then you must hasten. I give you three days: if within that time he has not consented, I shall do to him all that I have said, and more also."
"I do not require three days to make up my mind," said Desmond quietly. "I cannot do what--"
"Hush, you young fool!" cried Diggle angrily in English.
Turning to the Pirate he added: "The boy is as stiff-necked as a pig; but even a pig can be led if you ring his snout. I beg you leave him to me."
"Take him away!" exclaimed Angria, clapping his hands.